Remembering Rock Icon Tom Petty

Well, I won't back down
No, I won't back down
You can stand me up at the gates of hell
But I won't back down

Today is a sad day as a music lover. Last night in Las Vegas there a deadly shooting where over 50 people were killed and over 500 injured at a country concert. Later on Monday it was announced Rock and Roll legend Tom Petty fell into cardiac arrest and was reportedly dead after pulled from life support. But as of 6 pm on Monday, Petty is still alive and 'clinging to life'.

From Ultimate Classic Rock, Tom Petty was found unconscious in his home Sunday night. He was unresponsive and in full cardiac arrest. He was taken to UCLA Santa Monica Hospital where he was placed on life support. After admission to the hospital, doctors couldn’t find brain activity and was pulled off life support.

Growing up in the 80’s I loved Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. My Uncle was an avid rock listener and that is how I got introduced to groups like him. One of his songs I enjoyed from him was “I Won’t Back Down” from the Forever Moon Fever album released in 1989. The video had appearances from George Harrison and Ringo Starr from The Beatles. However, outside of his music there was a performance that really stood out and made me really admire, and appreciate him as a musician.

The date was March 15th, 2004, and George Harrison was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. There was an all-star performance of “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” and the lineup included Tom Petty, Jeff Lynne, Steve Winwood, Dhani Harrison (George’s son) and Prince. That 6-minute tribute was AMAZING as all guitarists blended well together - further solidifying my love for the the guitar.

As many tributes are being planned, I want to thank Mr. Petty for great music and memories that will last a lifetime. I also want to thank my Uncle for broadening my horizons and introducing me to Mr. Petty musically who knew that eventually my love for different genres of music would put me into the career I am in today.

I look at you all see the love there that's sleeping
While my guitar gently weeps